Vintage Carved Turquoise 18k Gold Ruby Stud Earrings

Turquoise, with its vibrant blue-green hues, has been a cherished gemstone for centuries. In vintage jewelry design, turquoise holds a special place. The name “turquoise” came from the French pierre tourques and translates as a “Turkish stone.” The mineral was first transported to the west through Turkey from mines in the historical Khorasan province of Iran (Persia) and Afghanistan. Pre-Columbian Native Americans mined the stone throughout nowadays. In all these cultures turquoise was considered as a protective stone for warriors and symbolized the connection to heaven. In the 17th century wearing turquoise jewelry was a must for a well-dressed gentleman. The stone was popular to the point when all of the emeralds in the crown that Napoleon I gave Empress Marie Louise were replaced with Persian turquoise cabochons. Today Persian turquoise is beloved by jewelry aficionados for its warm, calming color. It may vary from sky-blue to green. As to the dark veins, it depends on your preferences and a certain piece. Some jewelry collectors prefer turquoise with a web pattern of matrix as it adds character to a piece. The versatility of turquoise allows it to be used into various designs. Smooth cabochon cut turquoise is a common choice for vintage jewelry. Beadwork is also a popular technique that showcases turquoise's unique color. Turquoise is often associated with the American Southwest, where Native American artisans have been using the stone for centuries. Vintage turquoise jewelry, influenced by Native American craftsmanship, often features silverwork, geometric patterns, and symbolic motifs.